Northern Ireland Assembly Commission Nominates New Assembly Commissioner for Standards

The Northern Ireland Assembly Commission (the Assembly Commission) has nominated Mark McEwan for appointment as the new Assembly Commissioner for Standards.

The Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Chairperson of the Assembly Commission, Edwin Poots MLA, said, "I am pleased to confirm that the Assembly Commission has identified Mark McEwan to be nominated to the Assembly for appointment as the new Assembly Commissioner for Standards.

"The Northern Ireland Assembly Commissioner for Standards is an independent officer responsible for investigating complaints that a breach of the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Code of Conduct or Ministerial Code of Conduct has occurred, and to report the outcome of those investigations to the Assembly.

"The Commissioner operates independently from any political influence, and the role is vital to ensuring high standards of conduct and public confidence in their representatives and the Assembly.

"Mr McEwan comes with a wealth of experience in conducting investigations and upholding professional standards, which will serve him well as he undertakes this important work".

The Assembly Commission has today (2nd September 2025) asked the Business Committee to schedule the motion for debate at the Assembly sitting on Monday 8th September 2025, when MLAs will be given the opportunity to agree Mr McEwan's appointment.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. The appointment for the Commissioner, once it is approved by the Assembly, will be effective immediately.
2. Mark McEwan - Background details

Mark McEwan has 26 years experience in policing, including in the Metropolitan Police in London, most recently serving as Assistant Chief Constable in the Police Service of Northern Ireland before his retirement in 2024.

During his policing career, Mr McEwan not only has extensive experience of conducting investigations, including in sensitive and high-profile cases, he was also involved in overseeing processes to uphold professional standards and deal with misconduct.

ENDS

For further information please contact Robbie Best at the Assembly’s communications office:
Robbie.Best@niassembly.gov.uk